From a Gamer with Imposter Syndrome to a Game Designer

I didn't really want to take this class, but it was the only thing offered that met my remaining requirement. I just didn't see how the course would benefit my instruction. I didn't understand the full impact that good instructional game design could have on student achievement.

The semester started with a self-reflection of our game experiences. That exercise really got me thinkng about the power of games to bring people together. 

The class readings were curated to help me understand the power of gaming as an instructional tool. Most of my personal experience with instructional games as a learner were things like Hangman or a math version of BINGO. 

My board game design, Internet Famous, was one of the best activities I've ever designed for students. I'm truly proud of that work. 

I am  less happy with my work on the video game, Headline Hustle: Dragon Deception Part 1. I feel like I learned a lot from working on that game, but there's a lot to do to make the game match my vision. 

I am really glad that I took this class. I think it has made me a better teacher as well as instructional designer.